A person with this diagnosis is afraid of being abandoned by a loved one.
This type of fear has a negative impact on the patient's health and quality of life.
Examples of long-term effects include:
- Difficult relationship with peers, romantic partner;
- Low self-esteem;
- Difficulty trusting;
- Anger
- Change of character;
- Fear of intimacy;
- Anxiety
- Panic attack;
- Depression.
How to manage the fear of abandonment?
First of all, you should realize that you have this fear! The next step is to realize all the positive qualities that make you a good friend and partner - stop self-criticism, self-blame.
Spend a lot of time with people who leave a positive impression on you - spend time in an environment where you feel good, meet new people, expand the circle of supporters as much as possible.
It is advisable to disclose your fear to a loved one, but do not oblige anyone to solve the problem.
If you notice that you cannot cope with the fear of abandonment on your own, if you develop symptoms characteristic of panic disorder, anxiety or depression, contact a specialist.
If you notice that a loved one has a fear of abandonment and you want to help, I recommend developing some strategies.
Recommended:
- Ask to talk about the problem, fear, but don't force it;
- It may seem strange to you, but understand that the patient is really afraid, for him this feeling is intense;
- Reassure him that you are not going to leave him;
- Ask how you can help;
- Offer psychotherapy, doctor's consultation, but gently and without force.
Source:
https://www.healthline.com/health/fear-of-abandonment#diagnosis
